Biology

Maractus is a cactus-like Pokémon, with large ear-like extensions. These extensions feature dark green spiky arrangements at the base, yellow spikes further up, and flowers, with pink petals and yellow centers, at the top. It has a yellow spike on its head, yellow eyes and a spiky-looking mouth. Other dark green spiky arrangements adorn its neck, the wrists of its yellow-fingered arms, and base. Its base features further such green spikes arranged in a five-pointed star.

When Maractus moves its body rhythmically, it emits sounds reminiscent of maracas being played. This allows Maractus to produce up-tempo songs and dances that it can use to scare away predators. Avian Pokémon in particular may try to feed on its flower seeds.

Trivia

Maractus is the only Pokémon with a base stat total of 461.

Maractus shares its species name with Cacnea. They are both known as the Cactus Pokémon.

Two of Maractus's Abilities revolve around how a real-world cactus stores water with great efficiency: Water Absorb absorbs direct damage to restore health from them as well as making it immune to them, while Storm Drain draws in Water-type moves directed at another target, also making it immune.

Origin

Maractus appears to be based on a flowering cactus, most likely the prickly pear, and a maraca. It also physically resembles a rabbit and may be a visual pun on the bunny ears cactus. It also seems to be based on traditional Mexican dress styles and, due to the fact that it dances and makes maraca-like sounds, may be based on Spanish dances, possibly the Mexican version of the Cuban Son.